Mary Nottage Smith, affectionately known as “Mother Mary,” was born on October 26, 1925, in Charleston, South Carolina, to the late Edwin Nottage and Ethel Albury. She moved to Miami, Florida, during her early childhood, where she attended Philly Sweetley Elementary and later graduated from Booker T. Washington High School.

Driven by ambition and a love for beauty, Mary relocated to New York City to pursue her career in cosmetology. It was there that she met her husband, the late Samuel Smith. Their union was blessed with three  children, Terry A. Smith-Souvenir, Ronald E. Smith, and Samuel J. Smith, Jr.

Later in life during her career as a central supply technician in Miami, Florida, she met her companion, the late David “Pat” Johnson. She was preceded in death by their three sons, Dwight Johnson, David Johnson, and Kerry Johnson.

Mary was a devoted and cherished member of Truth, Faith, and Deliverance Church of God by Faith for over 65 years. Her unwavering faith, nurturing spirit, and selfless love earned her the endearing title of “Mother Mary” among family, friends, and her church community.

In her spare time away from the church, Mary expressed her creativity and love for others through her hobbies. She was a talented seamstress, the beloved neighborhood “candy lady,” and a gifted baker, famously

known for her delicious homemade pound cake that brought joy to all who tasted it.

She leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, strength, and family. She was preceded in death by her two sisters, Cora Lee Humes and Caroline Nottage-Williams; and one brother, Edwin Nottage.

She is survived by her loving children and grandchildren, daughter, Terry A. Smith-Souvenir, and grandchildren, Zondria Gibbons, Tasha Gibbons-Lattimore (Melvin), and Kim Harry (Seon); son, Ronald E. Smith, and grandchildren, Ron Smith, Jr., and Christopher Smith (Ayaka); son, Samuel J. Smith, Jr., and grandchildren, Tamika Anderson (Jean), Serafina Smith, Dominica Smith, Dorie Johnson, Robbie Kirkland, and Ariyanna Smith; the legacy of son, Dwight Johnson, lives on through his children, Dwight Johnson, Jr. (Melissa), Tisean Johnson, Nakia Johnson, Jason Johnson, and Adrienne Johnson; the memory of son, Kerry Johnson, is carried on through his children, Kerry Johnson, Jr., (Niya) and Arielle Lamarre; adopted grandchildren, Shirvin Dawkins, Freddie Johnson, the late Obree Johnson, Dante Johnson, and Tesh Humphries; godchildren, Earline Smith, Elder Carol Roberts (Clara), and Glynnette Roberts-Williams; nieces and nephews, Harriet (Mickey), Glendina (Cookie), Lawrence, Keith, Jeffrey, and the late George; twenty-three great-grandchildren; and a host of greatnieces and nephews and other family members.

Mary’s impact extended beyond her immediate family—her kindness, wisdom, and strength touched everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered.